Can You Be Tough on Crime and Still Show Grace

About this sermon

In this episode of Code Red, retired federal judge Tim Batten shares a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the justice system—from the weight of sentencing decisions to the reality that every person who stands before the bench has a story. With decades on the federal bench, he opens up about law, mercy, and faith—and what it really means to pursue justice in a broken world. He shares: What it’s like to sentence someone to decades in prison Why every defendant deserves dignity and respect The emotional weight judges carry (and rarely talk about) How faith shaped his approach to justice His role in the 2020 election case—and why he ruled the way he did Why Christians are needed in the legal system now more than ever This conversation is thoughtful, sobering, and deeply insightful. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction & meet Judge Tim Batten 02:13 – Every defendant has a story 03:15 – The weight of sentencing someone to prison 04:22 – “But for the grace of God…” 08:20 – Becoming a federal judge (Bush nomination) 13:44 – Interpreting the Constitution in today’s world 17:33 – The hardest part of being a judge 18:44 – Sentencing someone to 35 years (emotional moment) 26:54 – “We’re all guilty” — a sobering truth 30:53 – Death threats & the danger behind the role 31:16 – The 2020 election case explained 52:53 – Advice for future lawyers & living out your faith Download the Maximum Life+ app today and get instant access to hundreds of hours of sermons, Bible studies, books, and exclusive content from Dr. Zach Terry — all in one place. Simply search "Maximum Life+" in the App Store or Google Play, download the app, and subscribe to unlock everything, including a free copy of A Commentary on the Minor Prophets. Join a growing community of believers who are going deeper in God's Word every day. AMPLYFY THE TRUTH by supporting Maximum Life - https//www.zachterry.org/donate Facebook https://www.facebook.com/maximumlifewithzachterry Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zachterry Website http://www.zachterry.org Twitter https://twitter.com/zachterry

Topics

• Grace